Texas Vote: Harris County Surpasses One Million Early Ballots
Friday drew over 126,000 in-person voters in Houston, setting a new local record as the state heads into its final weekend of campaigning.
By Alexei Brooks ·
Harris County has passed the one million mark in early voting, according to unofficial numbers from the county clerk's office. More than one million residents cast in-person ballots, while the office received nearly 45,000 mail ballots. This total places the Houston metro area at the center of the state's record-setting turnout ahead of Tuesday's general election.
Friday proved to be the busiest day for in-person voting in the county's history. Election officials counted more than 126,000 people who cast ballots at vote centers. This single-day figure established a new local benchmark for early participation. The surge in activity coincides with the final days of campaigning across Texas.
Republican U.S. Senate candidate Ken Paxton campaigned in Houston, emphasizing the rising cost of daily necessities. He cited gas, groceries, and electricity as key drivers of financial strain. "Everything costs more, gas, groceries, electricity, everything’s up except our paychecks," Paxton told supporters. He outlined a plan to lower family costs and assist Texans in affording housing and healthcare.
Governor Greg Abbott split his time between Amarillo and Laredo to address border security, property taxes, and affordability. He urged supporters to persuade others to vote before the deadline. "Affordability is a major issue, yes. But, our values and what’s happening in our state," Abbott said, highlighting the differences between his administration and his opponents. Democratic gubernatorial candidate Gina Hinojosa and U.S. Senate candidate James Talarico campaigned together in Houston.
Hinojosa focused her message on property taxes and government accountability. She criticized Abbott's record on rising costs. "Property taxes have increased 85% under Greg Abbott," Hinojosa said. Talarico addressed campaign finance reform, stating his intent to limit the influence of wealthy donors and corporate money. "I’m gonna vote to ban corporate PACs and super PACs so billionaires can’t buy our elections," Talarico said.
Harris County Clerk Teneshia Hudspeth advised voters to bring acceptable photo identification and review sample ballots before heading to the polls. Polling locations will open at 7 a.m. and close at 7 p.m. on Election Day. Harris County voters may cast their ballots at any designated vote center within the county. Residents can access polling locations, sample ballots, and other election details at HarrisVotes.com. Election Day falls on Tuesday, November 3.
